The crisp spring breeze gently dances across the parking lot of Cardinal Mooney High School. The date reads April 22, 2021 in bright white letters. The sun begins to rise and brings a warmth that no one could ever replace. The sky glows blue and reflects everything in sight. Not a cloud in the sky means there will be stars tonight. The hummingbirds sing as the cars begin to start, and the Earth’s heart is ready to embark on the day long journey of celebrating her start. The sun shines extra bright on April 22 worldwide to celebrate green and blue. This day is important because communities get to come together and help the environment. Earth Day was first celebrated in 1970, and traditions have been made ever since. One hundred and ninety-three countries use this day to make the world a better place to live in. It’s an opportunity to help clean up any waste left behind. What a good way to go outside and feel the fresh air! After COVID-19 hit,most activities moved outdoors so participating would be safe and helpful. Teens today have come up with trendy ways to help the earth. Lately, many young adults have found metal straws are better and reusable. Senior Kayla Jadue expressed her desire to help the environment. "I've been recycling more and just overall trying to help our planet. It's always a good feeling when I get to help our community,” Jadue said. Music teacher Matt Ohlin enjoys this day because it makes him think of his younger self. Ohlin said that his high school youth group at St. Paul’s New Middletown organized annual clothing/food drives to benefit the Springfield township council of church and community (STCC). He also helped out at St. Vincent DePaul Society for their daily breakfasts. The youth group was called WITNESS ( Winning In The Never Ending Search For Salvation.) "It's always nice to know that even when I was part of a small youth group, we could take responsibility for our own community by doing our part," Ohlin said. "It's satisfying to know that even as teenagers, we were still able to make a positive difference in the lives of a few people. It just took a little organizing.” There are so many ways society can help keep its home safe and clean. The people of the world need to remember the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.
The EPA, the United States Environmental Protection Agency, said, “The most effective way to reduce waste is to not create it in the first place.” |
Ideas on How to Reduce and Reuse
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The people of society need to wake up and stop destroying the Earth. She provides them with everything they need and asks for nothing in return. There are so many ways for them to ensure her safety and well being. So, let’s do better and help the Earth stay happy and healthy.